Top 3 NBA Draft prospect fits for the Detroit Pistons

The Detroit Pistons are hoping to land in the top-4 of this year’s NBA Draft. They currently have the third-worst record, so have maximum odds to stay in the top-4, but could drop as far as 7th.

Even though there is no consensus on who the #1 pick will be, there are three players who would be ideal fits for the Detroit Pistons.

Best NBA Draft prospect fits for the Detroit Pistons

 Jabari Smith: PF Auburn

Jabari Smith is a 6-foot-10, 215 lb. power forward who has been one of the best players in the nation for the Auburn Tigers. As a freshman, he led the program to a number two seed in the Midwest region of the NCAA tournament. Under the tutelage of legendary coach Bruce Pearl he is considered the front runner to be called first in this year’s draft by many draft experts.

At just nineteen years old, Smith posted some strong numbers, averaging 17.1 points 7.1 rebounds 2.9 assists 1.0 blocks and 1.5 steals. He did this in just under thirty minutes (28.4 mpg) a game which makes those stats more impressive. I see him as a prospect able to fit in with any style of play.

If he landed in Detroit it would be a match made in heaven. He could become the modern day stretch big this team needs. His defensive awareness, and shooting touch with his size would change the complexion of the team next year. If he’s on the board when the Pistons pick it should be a easy selection for General Manager Troy Weaver.

He would bring versatility to the Pistons on both ends 

Filling up stat sheets is what he does best. With his versatile skill set, he scores both inside and out, and in pick and roll situations with Cade Cunningham he could be extremely effective. His ability to roll to the basket or flare to the three point line would cause fits for coaching staffs.

He’s arguably the most versatile big in this draft class. Grabbing rebounds and taking it the length of the floor something he does with ease. He’s shown he can facilitate the offense, provide serviceable rim protection, and score. He’s a elite knock-down shooter boasting a 43.8 percentage from three during his one year with Auburn. Most big men with his outside shooting touch don’t provide the intangibles Smith possesses.

Defensively he can impose his will on the game as a vocal player. He’s a leader on the floor communicating to get guys to get in position on that end. He has excellent footwork, and turns his hips quickly to cut off lanes, something that is a must for bigs in the NBA. His mobility will translate to the league well, especially when switching in pick and roll. He has the lateral quickness to stay in front of smaller guards. His length allows him to recover well when needed, contesting once a player commits to their shot.

Smith is going to be a solid pro and I personally feel he has one of the highest floors in this class. I could see him developing in Detroit similar to how Jaren Jackson Jr did with the Memphis Grizzlies. Both can have a significant impact on both ends of the floor. There’s been several player comparisons from NBA draft scouts regarding Jabari Smith. Usually I’ll stay clear of comparing prospects to past players, but if I had to make a comparison I’ll say Antwan Jamison.